Etymology: Solanum: Latin for "quieting," in reference to the narcotic properties of some species
Plants: erect, perennial, 20"-40" tall forb, coarse, branched; stems usually prickly
Leaves: half as long as wide, 2-5 teeth or shallow lobes,
Flowers: white to lavender, 5-parted, 3/4" wide, saucer-shaped; inflorescence of several, stalked flowers in a cluster (raceme-like) that becomes longer with age; blooms June-Sept.
Fruits: yellow, smooth, deadly poisonous berry
Habitat: disturbed sites; in sandy soil
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized

Floristic Rating: Wetland Indicator = FACU- Invasive And Exotic Species of North America: Descriptions, management issues, warnings, photos, etc. USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"